Imagine a TikTok influencer, showing her newly stained tattered denim jacket, which resulted in oddly-designed patterns.
She wakes up in the morning, checks TikTok first thing, and then, boom! The denim jacket she had shown off is now trending.
This is called a “microtrend,” a new fad among social media users.
Through the recent continuous fashion evolution, “micro-trends” are now a thing due to their fast budding and approach to people, especially Gen Zs.
This so-called trend is known for its niche appeal and short life span in the market.
The trend emphasizes the rhythm of fashion from unique to nostalgic and it has now changed into a double-edged sword for giving both opportunity and challenges to the fashion industry.
What are microtrends?
A “microtrend” is a phenomenon of accelerated fashion cycles that can be found often in social media channels.
This differs from “macrotrends,” which affect fashion wider and for a much longer cycle.
A microtrend could either be a particular accessory or color, up to a certain style of clothing that teens get addicted to and would do anything to have their hands on the latest items.
Their fast nature could sometimes result in deeper trends as time passes by. One can say that this is a hyper-fixation of Gen Z to their definition of belongingness.
Some examples of micro trends include:
Coquette style, a type of girly aesthetic focuses on a more feminine side often associated with pink ribbons and bows, as well as lacey garments mostly popular with teenage girls.
The rise of balloon mini-skirts, a puffy balloon type of mini-skirt
Cottagecore, embraces a rural life, slow living, and serenity, mostly with a hint of romanticizing living with nature, usually with flowy long skirts, floral dresses, and cozy knits in brown and earthy tones.
Balletcore, a ballerina-inspired outfit, with soft pastels showing a feminine and simple get-up.
Gorpcore is centered on incorporating hiking-themed and mountain clothing items such as cargo pants, puffer jackets, boots, outdoor garments, and windbreakers.
If you explore TikTok, these are just some of the cores and aesthetics they come up with.
Effects
Brands such as Shein, capitalize on this trend due to their fast production and consumption.
According to Time Magazine, “Shein’s CEO, Molly Miao has stated that each item is produced only in small numbers, between 50-100 pieces a day, before it becomes popular and is then mass-produced.”
These types of brands are getting competitive to match the trend and sell more of their products.
Unfortunately, some worry that “microtrends” can cause harm in the long run.
The website “good on you” stated, “Faster production, exploitative manufacturing process, and plastic clothing are needed to keep up with the demands that micro trend created.”
This trend can result in overconsumption and textile-waste products, since this encourages consumers to buy more new items that are on trend which could harm the environment.
Usually, the products use nylon, polyester, and lycra – materials that are non-biodegradable and can last for centuries.
Sustainable approach
Some other brands are focusing on adapting the trend in a more sustainable way by highlighting quality over quantity and making timeless pieces that would stay even if the trend has faded away.
Microtrends mirror the replicating nature of contemporary fashion showing cultural shifts and the influence of digital media.
Although it creates and promotes creativity, it is always needed to maintain a well-balanced trend-driven enthusiasm when it comes to environmental responsibility as for the future of fashion as well.
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